UPAYA TAN MALAKA DALAM PERJUANGAN KEMERDEKAAN INDONESIA 1919-1949

Abstract

This study explores the struggle of Tan Malaka in realizing and defending Indonesia’s independence between 1919 and 1949. As a revolutionary figure, Tan Malaka played a significant role in the national history, although he was often marginalized due to his radical ideological views that clashed with the dominant political currents. The objective of this research is to reveal the background of Tan Malaka's life, thoughts, and strategies of struggle, which included movements through education, mass mobilization, international diplomacy, ideological writings such as Naar de Republiek Indonesia and Madilog, as well as armed resistance. This research employs a qualitative method with a literature review and historical approach. The findings show that Tan Malaka was both a revolutionary thinker and a field fighter who emphasized the political awareness of the people as the main force. Despite his tragic end, his ideas and struggles remain relevant for building a just and sovereign Indonesia. After the proclamation of independence, Tan Malaka founded Persatuan Perjuangan (Union of Struggle), an organization that demanded unconditional independence. He also took part in guerrilla resistance across various regions, such as Kediri and Blitar. These strategies were carried out secretly and with frequent relocations, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the people's struggle. Guerrilla warfare became the concrete form of Tan Malaka’s uncompromising stance against foreign powers and local elites whom he saw as weak in defending independence.